The same house had some rot issues with a support post supporting the entry porch roof.

Further observation showed that the support post actually had earth to wood contact and was surrounded by cement on the other sides. both conditions are conducive to rot and insect activity. The location of the roof downspout didn't help either.

Removal of the rotted post also showed evidence that someone had been concealing the damage with excessive caulking, spackle and paint.

A concrete support pier was installed, including new hardware. the new post was primed and painted to match.